Optometry

Doctors of optometry are primary care doctors of the eye. Doctors of optometry are educated in general health issues as well as the specialization of the eye.

How Do I Become an Optometrist?

Schools and colleges of Optometry award the O.D. degree after four years of study. The first two years typically consists of foundational science courses and their application to the study of medicine. The final two years are more patient-focused and the student is exposed to a variety of specialities within the medical field.

Following graduation, some students undergo more advanced, specialized training in a field of their choice, such as pediatric or geriatric optometry, low vision rehabilitation, family practice, hospital or primary care optometry. All students must complete their training in a school or college of optometry and pass a State Board Examination. Optometrists typically work in an office setting, usually in a private practice; some work in group practices, but most function independently. As with other healthcare professionals, they may be employed by a health service organization or work in hospitals or other institutions, such as schools or government agencies. They are trained to examine the eye for abnormalities and test for proper eye function. When problems are detected, treatment can include corrective glasses or contact lenses, eye therapy, or prescription drugs (some states only). For more advanced diseases, optometrists refer patients to another medical practitioner, often an ophthalmologist (a D.O. or M.D. specializing in care of the eye).

What are Common Prerequisites for Optometry School?

While prerequisites may vary from school to school, common prerequisites can include (but are not limited to):

8 Credits of Inorganic Chemistry with labs
8 Credits of Organic Chemistry with labs
Biochemistry
8 credits of Biology with labs
Calculus
Statistics
8 Credits of Physics with labs
6 Credits of English
3 Credits of Psychology

*More information is available on the HPAO Canvas Course. Students are encouraged to meet with HPAO if they need help determining which UMD courses can be used to fulfill these requirements.

PLEASE NOTE: The requirements above apply to a majority of optometry schools; however, please reference individual websites or the Optometry Program Prerequisite Chart for AP Credit policies and school-specific course requirements.

Pro Tips:

Schools generally require a minimum of a C (not a C-) in all prerequisite courses.
Refer to 4yearplans.umd.edu for specific guidance on how to proceed through these courses while creating your 4-year plan.
Be sure to take the Math and Physics courses required for your academic major. The general optometry school requirement for Physics is 8 credits with labs.
There are many Minors that cover topics critical to expanding understanding of the various determinants of health. Coursework related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion can be helpful in developing cultural awareness, cultural humility, and an understanding of systemic discrimination in the health care system. Even if your academic plan does not permit adding a minor, it is worth reviewing the curated course lists for courses that will stretch you, increase your language for difference and disparity, show your intellectual curiosity, and improve your critical reasoning skills.